Born in Munich, German jewelry designer Joseph Heilbronner (1893-1968) came to New York after the WWII, and became a US citizen in 1948. In 1952 he married Edith Levitt, and this was the second marriage for 60-year-old Joe. From his first marriage he had two children, a son, Hans, and a daughter, Margo. Noteworthy, it was their names that made up the name of the future Hargo jewelry brand – the first two letters from Hans and the last three from Margot.

So, in 1955 Joseph Heilbronner and Edith Levitt founded their family business Hargo Creations (doing business as HAR) in New York City. It is important to note that all reference books on vintage jewelry misspell Joseph’s last name, without the letter L – Heibronner. According to Catalog of Copyright Entries, Works of Art, 1959 and 1960, his last name was Heilbronner.

Known for fine enameling and detailed jewelry, HAR designs traditionally include oriental figures with imitation ivory faces, fortune tellers, cobras, dragons, and blackamoors. The designs also include large misshapen crystal cluster stones with an iridescent glow. The designer of these pieces was not just a professional, he was a talented designer, a bright star who flared up for a short time. Heilbronner died in 1968 and the company ceased to exist.

Currently, collectors are on a real hunt for HAR jewelry, the prices for some pieces reach fantastic levels! Every year, the value of HAR jewelry only grows.

Hargo Creations HAR Jewelry History